Mets Release Ryota Igarashi

The Mets have released reliever Ryota Igarashi, reports Adam Rubin of ESPN New York. The Japanese right-hander signed a two-year, $3MM deal with the Mets in December 2009 but struggled to adjust to pitching in North America. Igarashi posted a 5.74 ERA and a 1.71 WHIP in 79 career appearances with New York and was designated for assignment by the Mets last January.

Since Igarashi and the Mets couldn't agree on a new deal, Igarashi is now a free agent due to a clause in his original contract with the club. The 32-year-old has said he wants to keep pitching in the Major Leagues.

My understanding of both former Japanese players was this: Mets gave Iggy one extra year while Taka gets only one year. The Mets thought Iggy had more upside than Taka. Two years later, Taka has a great year with the Halos while Iggy struggles through his contract.